NSW Rugby League looks forward to election funding pledges to deliver multi-million dollar facility upgrades

New South Wales Rugby League Clubs have received a significant boost following the Federal Election with more than $12.3 million in commitments from Labor candidates for much-needed facility upgrades.

Nine Rugby League Clubs from the Penrith, Hunter, Balmain, Newcastle and Central Coast associations are set to be the beneficiaries of the $12,345,000 funding that will result in infrastructure improvements including elevating facility playing standards and creating more inclusive facilities.

The NSWRL has already recorded record registrations for the 2025 season of almost 118,000 participants, including a record of almost 32,000 females (27% of the total participants) underlining the urgent need for infrastructure funding to support future demand, as well as address the significant growth in females playing the game.

Five of the projects received more than $1 million in funding, with the Lakes United’s Belmont Sporting Complex being allocated the largest amount of $4.6 million.

 The full list of projects to receive funding as a result of election commitments from Labor candidates includes:

• Emu Plains JRL, Leonay Oval (turf upgrade and drainage) - $2,250,000

• Lakes United, Belmont Sporting Complex (masterplan stage 2) - $4,600,000

• Carlingford Cougars, Sir Thomas Mitchell (turf and drainage) - $1,200,000

• Mallabula Panthers JRLFC, Mallabula Sports Complex (changerooms) - $1,200,000

• Dudley Magpies RLFC, John Balcomb Reserve (lighting) - $420,000

• Budgewoi Bulldogs, Halekulani Oval (fencing) - $35,000

• Greta Branxton Colts, Greta Central Oval (car park, clubhouse and canteen) - $2,000,000

• Macquarie Scorpions, Lyall Peacock Oval (lighting) - $340,000

• Dora Creek Swampies, Douglas Street Fields (drainage and field re-leveling) - $300,000

The NSWRL advised that it and its “community clubs look forward to working with local councils and the Federal Government in delivering these important infrastructure projects for the community.”

Image: Lakes United Seagulls RLFC run out for a homegame at the Belmont Sporting Complex.